isothiocyanate

chemical compound

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

An isothiocyanate is a chemical compound characterized by the functional group -N=C=S. This group has cumulated bonding, similar to carbon disulfide (S=C=S).1

Isothiocyanates are found in nature and contribute to the distinctive flavors of certain foods. For example, allyl isothiocyanate is responsible for the pungent taste of horseradish, and related compounds are found in mustard and radish.1

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organosulfur compound
Thiocarbonyl compounds
Isothiocyanates, R―N=C=S, have cumulated bonding similar to that in carbon disulfide. Allyl isothiocyanate, CH₂=CHCH₂N=C=S, gives horseradish its distinctive flavor; related compounds are found in mustard and radish. The dithiocarbamate thiuram, R₂NC(S)SSC(S)NR₂ (R = CH₃
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Isothiocyanates, R―N=C=S, have cumulated bonding similar to that in carbon disulfide. Allyl isothiocyanate, CH₂=CHCH₂N=C=S, gives horseradish its distinctive flavor; related compounds are found in mustard and radish. The dithiocarbamate thiuram, R₂NC(S)SSC(S)NR₂ (R = CH₃
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wasabi
Wasabi paste
…of volatile compounds known as isothiocyanates when the cells are ruptured from being cut or grated. Fresh wasabi paste loses its pungency when exposed to air, so the rhizome is often grated immediately before serving, traditionally with a sharkskin or wooden grater. It is also available as a dried powder…
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…of volatile compounds known as isothiocyanates when the cells are ruptured from being cut or grated. Fresh wasabi paste loses its pungency when exposed to air, so the rhizome is often grated immediately before serving, traditionally with a sharkskin or wooden grater. It is also available as a dried powder…
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